Being from new mexico (very close to abq) this is a farming community, so meat rabbits aren't uncommon (I have my own meat rabbits from our farm) and I also have my pet rabbits that I love very much. Now if there are being abused then I am 100% for you, I do NOT tolerate abuse of any kind.
We've raised meat rabbits before but I agree that just because they are used for meat doesnt mean they should be abused or taken less care of than I would a non meat rabbit.